About
I have taught viola & cello for about 20 years and violin for 30 years. I like to move at the student’s pace. The more he/she practices, the faster we go.
If we are just starting out, we’ll start with beginner books. After time, we’ll add some scales, etudes, and a little more music theory (reading notes etc. is considered basic theory). Beginners, no matter how old they are, will always start with a taped instrument. Either I will tape it or you can get the store to tape it.
I tend to use Suzuki books but I’m not a Suzuki teacher. Even though I use ear training to a certain degree, I start my students earlier on note reading and counting. Also very form oriented. I am trying to help prevent injury by using proper form and techniques.
In general, if you are not located close to Waldorf, MD or are not really serious about online lessons, I may not be the one you want.
Specialties
Do you own a violin?
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Instrument interested in
Reviews
Angela T.
Faith K.
Aubrey K.
ERIN S.
Alva C.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
With a new student, we first learn about how to handle the instrument, the parts, and open string songs.
After the first week, we start reading and pluck out simple songs until we have 8 notes.
After we have 8 notes, we start work on the bow.
I use what ever method I need to use to reach the student and to help them learn.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a degree in music (violin performance) and a masters in teaching. I have a couple of other degrees that are unrelated to my work.
I belong to the American Strings Teachers Association, Music Teachers Association (national, state and local), The National Association for Music Education.
I also work with the Royal Conservatory of Music of Canada Music Development Program.
I have gone to teacher trainings when I was with the county school systems as well as a few seminars that further my education or expand my teaching methods.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Home & Online:(Monday &, Thusday)
$30/half hour $50/hour
$25/half hour/student for family rates.
KDF music, Waldorf, MD: (Tuesday & Friday)
$40/ 1/2 hr. $70 / hr.
Family Rates:
$35/ per student/ half hour
I personally find that most people that are doing family rates are normally not do 1 hour lessons each. If that is your case, we can negotiate a price depending on location.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching after my teacher asked if I could teach a few of her students. The more I taught, the more I found that I liked it.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with high functioning autistic and ADHD/ADD students. I have adult students. I have small children. I prefer to work with a student that can stay focused for 30 minutes on a topic.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
too many to pick just one. :D
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Be certain that you are close to the studio. My radius covers DC and Northern Virginia. 25 miles is as the crow flies. I am in Southern Maryland which normally means without traffic, it's 45-60 minutes one way.
I would recommend that you look for some one with experience and loves what he/she does. I also recommend finding someone the student would like to work with, not always what they need. If the student hates the teacher, they won't do the work.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What their goals are. If you have medical issues, how will that affect playing the instrument? For example, if you can't move one of your arms, the violin isn't the right instrument for you.
Can you stay focused for the length of the lesson? How much time do you have to practice? Starting out, it may require roughly an hour a week outside of the classroom. It gets longer as you get better.
Sometimes I don't speak clearly or I speak slower than my brain is spitting it out. Always ask me to repeat myself if it is unclear. I also need to know if something is hurting. Try not to arrive tired or hungry. It takes the focus off of the lesson.